Origin and Common Names
Peltigera malacea (Ach.) Funck, commonly known as Green Shield Lichen, is a species of lichen found in temperate and boreal regions worldwide. It belongs to the family Peltigeraceae and is a member of the division Ascomycota and class Lecanoromycetes. The Green Shield Lichen is found in North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa, where it grows on the surface of soil or rocks.General Appearance
Peltigera malacea is a foliose lichen that features a greenish upper surface with a bluish hue underneath. Its thallus is up to 10 centimeters in diameter, forming a circular shape with a lobed margin. It is flat to slightly convex, with a smooth upper surface that is covered in soredia, warts, or papillae. The lower surface is white to pale green and often has conspicuous veins.Uses
The Green Shield Lichen has various uses in traditional medicine. It is believed to have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in treating wounds and skin infections. Some cultures also use it for treating respiratory illnesses. Additionally, Peltigera malacea has been used as a natural dye in textiles and food coloring, producing shades of olive green and brown. It is also used as a bioindicator for air quality and pollution monitoring.Light Requirements
The plant Peltigera malacea typically grows in shaded areas such as on the forest floor or in areas with partial shade. This plant prefers indirect sunlight as direct sunlight can cause damage to the sensitive thallus.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Peltigera malacea is between 10 and 18 degrees Celsius. This plant can also grow in slightly warmer temperatures but should not be exposed to extreme heat or frost.
Soil Requirements
Peltigera malacea grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. This plant can tolerate a variety of soil types including loam, sandy loam, and clay soils. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, in the range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is also important for the soil to be well-aerated to prevent waterlogging which can damage the plant.
Cultivation methods
Peltigera malacea is a lichen plant that thrives well in humid and cool conditions with good air circulation. It is essential to grow this plant in a shaded area with appropriate soil structure, which should have a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The ideal temperature range for the growth of Peltigera malacea is between 10°C to 20°C. Therefore, it is best grown in a greenhouse or indoors.
Watering needs
Since Peltigera malacea is a lichen plant, it requires a specific watering regime to maintain its growth. It prefers regular water supply, and the soil should always be moist but not waterlogged. It is recommended to water the plant once per week, ensuring that the water drains properly. Avoid watering when the temperatures are low, as this may stunt the plant's growth.
Fertilization
This lichen plant doesn't require fertilizer since it grows on its symbiotic relationship with fungi and algae, and it can produce its food using photosynthesis. Therefore, applying fertilizer might harm the lichen plant and trigger the growth of unwanted plants. Additionally, feeding Peltigera malacea can alter the characteristics of its symbiotic organisms, such as fungi and algae, leading to their decline.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Peltigera malacea since it grows by spreading its thallus on a suitable substrate. However, removing any dead or decaying thallus can help reduce competition with other organisms and promote proper growth. If some parts of the plant turn black or brown, it is advisable to remove them to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Peltigera malacea (Ach.) Funck
Peltigera malacea (Ach.) Funck is a fruticose lichen that can be propagated in several ways. The following are the most common propagation methods:
Fragmentation
One of the most popular methods of propagation for Peltigera malacea is fragmentation. In this method, the lichen thallus is carefully fragmented into smaller pieces. These pieces are then either placed directly in a suitable growing medium or attached to a substrate. Fragmentation can be done either manually by tearing or cutting the thallus, or mechanically by using a blender or food processor. This method is effective because even small fragments of the thallus can grow into new lichens.
Soredia dispersal
Soredia are small, powdery structures found on the surface of lichen thalli, which contain both fungal and algal cells. These structures are capable of dispersing over long distances by wind, water, or animal transport. In the case of Peltigera malacea, soredia are typically dispersed by wind, as the lichen is often found in exposed habitats. Soredia can be collected and used to propagate new lichen colonies. The soredia can simply be sprinkled onto a suitable substrate where they will soon germinate into new lichens.
Vegatative propagation
Vegetative propagation involves the use of specialized reproductive structures called isidia. These structures are small, finger-like projections that break off from the thallus and then grow into new lichens. Isidia can be collected and used to propagate new lichen colonies. The isidia can be planted directly into a suitable growing medium or attached to a substrate. This method is less commonly used for Peltigera malacea, as the lichen produces fewer isidia than other lichen species.
Disease and Pest Management for Peltigera malacea
Peltigera malacea (Ach.) Funck is a lichen species that grows on soil, rocks, and tree bark in moist, shaded areas. Although lichens are generally resilient, they can still be affected by diseases and pests that can negatively impact their health and growth. Here are some common issues that can impact Peltigera malacea and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Fungal diseases: Peltigera malacea can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as Anthracnose and Phytophthora. Symptoms of these diseases can include browning and yellowing of the lichen, as well as the formation of black spots or patches on the thallus. To manage fungal diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure that the lichen is growing in an appropriate environment that supports its growth and health.
2. Bacterial diseases: Peltigera malacea can also be affected by bacterial infections that can cause yellowing and wilting of the thallus. To manage bacterial diseases, remove infected areas as soon as they are identified and ensure good air circulation to prevent the spread of the infection.
Pests
1. Snails and slugs: These pests can feed on the thallus of Peltigera malacea, causing damage to the lichen. To manage snails and slugs, keep the area around the lichen free from debris and place a barrier, such as crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth, around the lichen to prevent their access.
2. Mites: Mites can also cause damage to the thallus of Peltigera malacea by feeding on its tissues. To manage mite infestations, make sure that the lichen is growing in a location with good air flow and avoid over-watering, which can create a moist environment that is conducive to mite activity.
By carefully monitoring the growth and health of Peltigera malacea and taking steps to manage any problems, you can help ensure that this lichen thrives in its environment.
